Sam Walker chooses Kangaroos over England approach
Halfback Sam Walker, born in Leeds, has chosen to play for Australia in the Rugby League World Cup despite England's approach.
Sam Walker makes his international debut for the Kangaroos against Fiji this week. The 24-year-old was born in England in 2002 when his father played for Leeds Rhinos, so England coach Brian McDermott reached out earlier this year to see if he'd consider playing for them.
Walker declined. "I knew where I wanted to play," he said.
"I wanted to represent Australia and my family. I know my family would have killed me if I'd played for anyone else."
Walker will play in the halves alongside Tom Dearden, with the two having deep ties going back almost 50 years through their families and a playing connection that started at Brisbane when they were both in the Broncos Academy.
- 24 years old, born 2002
- Walker age and birth year
- Leeds, England
- Birthplace
- almost 50 years back through families
- Family connection to Dearden
- Fiji
- Debut opponent
Why it mattersWalker's choice shows the pull of national identity and family loyalty over the chance to play for another country, a decision that has shaped the Kangaroos squad for the World Cup.
AustraliaAustralia now has Walker locked in to the halfback role, a position he's fought hard to secure after returning from serious injury.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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